Giriraj Singh Unveils India’s First Manikin Flame Test System At NITRA
Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh visited the Northern India Textile Research Association (NITRA) in Ghaziabad today, where he inspected the cultivation of Milkweed (Aak) on the institute’s campus and inaugurated key advancements in protective textiles.
During the visit, the Minister lauded NITRA’s pioneering research on Aak/Milkweed, describing it as a smart-age fibre with the potential to create a significant shift in India’s textile sector. He noted that NITRA has already transferred Milkweed-based technology to several leading companies and is in advanced discussions with others to expand its adoption.
A major highlight of the event was the formal dedication of India’s first Manikin Flame Test System, installed at NITRA, Ghaziabad. Giriraj Singh stated that the system will greatly benefit not only the textile industry but also critical sectors such as steel, oil and gas, petroleum, railways and chemicals. The advanced testing capabilities will help determine protective performance of garments and ultimately safeguard workers operating in high-risk conditions.
Dr. M. S. Parmar, Director General of NITRA, emphasized that the Manikin Flame Test System enhances India’s capabilities in protective clothing research, enabling precise assessment of the protective wear required across various industrial environments.
Concluding his visit, the Minister encouraged industry stakeholders to accelerate the development of Milkweed-based products and to build on NITRA’s research at both national and international levels. He also urged industries to make full use of the Manikin Flame Test Facility and other services offered by NITRA’s Centre of Excellence in Protective Textiles under the Ministry of Textiles.
